Guy’s Guide to Buying an Engagement Ring

So, if you don’t know the first thing about engagement rings (besides the fact that they involve diamonds somehow, hopefully you’ve come to the right place.

Here’s an easy 4-step guide to beginning your search for the perfect ring.

Size Matters

This seems obvious, but then you realize that the size of the diamond will greatly multiply the total cost of the ring. First things first, diamonds’ sizes are most commonly measured in carats. One (1) carat is equal to about 200 milligrams.

The average engagement ring will have a diamond between 1.5-2.5 carats.

It’s worth noting that diamonds at odd carat intervals (1.8, 2.2, 1.4, etc.) will usually have much better values than any carat size ending in .5 or .0. That’s because diamond prices are measured at those intervals.

If you’re not choosing a diamond for the center gemstone, ask your jeweler how other stones are measured for pricing.

Pick a Shape

By far, the most common shape for any diamond is the round. It accounts for probably 75% of all diamonds on rings.

While traditional and classy, the round shape is also the most expensive. In fact, you can save up to 40% for selecting non-round shapes, like the princess (square) cut.

Select a Metal

Once you have the stone figured out, you’re ready to start thinking about the setting and the band.

The first thing you need to consider is the kind of precious metal you’ll be using.

Common precious metals include:

Platinum (most expensive)

White Gold

Yellow Gold

Rose Gold (most trendy)

Some of these can appear similar, such as platinum and white gold. The difference can sometimes be durability and price (platinum is both more expensive and tougher than white gold).

When you’re on this stage, start thinking about what kind of ring you’re going for. To do that, consider your future-fiancé and the kind of jewelry she already wears.

Choose a Style

Knowing what she likes will definitely come in handy here. Does she prefer classy and modern over unique and artistic? Antique over timeless? Diamonds all over the band? One diamond or three?

One way to figure that out is to not only look at her jewelry, but her clothes and even her furniture too. Would she like something nature-inspired, glamorous, or even mechanic?

Going with your gut here is your best bet, but if you’re feeling shaky, most jewelers offer some kind of 30-day or 60-day guarantees. If the ring you choose doesn’t fit her vision, you’ll be able to return it and select another together.